Definition

Adverb: 1. In a lofty manner: In a way that shows a superior or haughty attitude; with an air of grandeur, pride, or aloofness. 2. In a noble or elevated way: In a manner that is exalted, grand, or sublime in thought or style.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • The ambassador spoke loftily about the principles of diplomacy. (He spoke in a grand, superior manner.)
  • She dismissed the criticism loftily, as if it were beneath her notice. (She dismissed it with a haughty air.)
  • The poet wrote loftily of love and destiny. (He wrote in an elevated, noble style.)

Advanced Usage

• Used to describe speech or writing: Often modifies verbs like "speak," "declare," "write," or "dismiss" to indicate a tone of superiority or grand, abstract ideals.
  • The philosopher argued loftily for a world beyond material concerns.
• Used to describe behavior or bearing: Can describe a person's physical demeanor as proud or aloof.
  • He carried himself loftily through the crowded room.

Variants and Related Words

• Lofty (adjective): High, elevated; noble; haughty.
  • He has lofty ambitions. (Noble, grand ambitions.)
  • She gave a lofty smile. (A superior, condescending smile.)
• Loftiness (noun): The quality of being lofty.
  • The loftiness of his language was impressive.

Synonyms

• Haughtily: In a proud and scornful manner.
• Condescendingly: In a way that shows a feeling of superiority.
• Grandly: In a magnificent or impressive manner.
• Exaltedly: In a lofty, elevated, or noble manner.

Antonyms

• Humbly: In a modest or lowly manner.
• Meekly: In a submissive or quiet manner.

Related Phrases

• To hold one's head loftily: To carry oneself with pride or arrogance.
  • Even in defeat, she held her head loftily.
• To speak loftily of: To talk about something in grand, idealistic, or dismissive terms.
  • He spoke loftily of his plans to change the industry.

Adverb

1. in a lofty manner
   • she bore herself loftily